Q1 10M 150w Compulsory distinguish HDI and IHDI comparison
Distinguish between the Human Development Index (HDI) and the Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI) with special reference to India. Why is the IHDI considered a better indicator of inclusive growth ? (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत के विशेष संदर्भ में मानव विकास सूचकांक (एच डी आई) तथा असमानता-समायोजित मानव विकास सूचकांक (आई एच डी आई) में भेद कीजिए। आई एच डी आई को समावेशी संवृद्धि का एक बेहतर सूचक क्यों समझा जाता है ? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: compare. compare: paired headings or table > key differences > significance > conclusion Full marks: Clear distinction with India-specific data, precise explanation of inequality adjustment, strong inclusive growth argument
- Define HDI components (health, education, income)
- Define IHDI as HDI adjusted for inequality
- Reference India's specific HDI/IHDI context
- Explain why IHDI captures inclusive growth better
Q2 10M 150w Compulsory what Protectionism and bilateralism challenges
What are the challenges before the Indian economy when the world is moving away from free trade and multilateralism to protectionism and bilateralism ? How can these challenges be met ? (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारतीय अर्थव्यवस्था के समक्ष वे कौन-सी चुनौतियाँ हैं जब विश्व स्वतंत्र व्यापार तथा बहुपक्षीयता से दूर होकर संरक्षणवाद तथा द्विपक्षीयता की ओर बढ़ रहा है। इन चुनौतियों का सामना किस तरह किया जा सकता है ? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures: legal, institutional, developmental > Assessment. challenges: 3-4 challenges > solutions mapped to them > conclusion Full marks: Identifies 3-4 specific challenges and maps implementable solutions to each with current data.
- Identify 3-4 distinct challenges (e.g., supply chain, exports, FDI).
- Map specific solutions to each identified challenge.
- Solutions must be implementable (legal/institutional), not aspirational.
- Contextualize the shift from multilateralism to bilateralism.
Q3 10M 150w Compulsory explain High value crop selection factors
Explain the factors influencing the decision of the farmers on the selection of high value crops in India. (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत में किसानों द्वारा उच्च मूल्य वाली फसलों के चयन के निर्णय को प्रभावित करने वाले कारकों की व्याख्या कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures: legal, institutional, developmental > Assessment. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Identifies 4-5 distinct factors with specific examples/schemes and clear logic.
- Define high value crops (HVCs) or give examples (horticulture, spices, floriculture).
- Explain market demand and price signals as a primary driver.
- Discuss the role of irrigation availability and water security.
- Mention government support (MSP, subsidies, or schemes) or infrastructure (cold chain).
Q4 10M 150w Compulsory elaborate Agricultural supply chain management
Elaborate the scope and significance of supply chain management of agricultural commodities in India. (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत में कृषि वस्तुओं की आपूर्ति श्रृंखला प्रबंधन के क्षेत्र तथा महत्व की विस्तार से व्याख्या कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures > Assessment. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Clear scope definition, specific bottlenecks, and strong significance analysis.
- Define scope: procurement to retail (seed-to-shell).
- Identify key bottlenecks: storage, transport, intermediaries.
- Explain significance: reducing post-harvest losses.
- Link to farmer income and food security.
Q5 10M 150w Compulsory mention Fusion energy and ITER project
The fusion energy programme in India has steadily evolved over the past few decades. Mention India's contributions to the international fusion energy project – International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). What will be the implications of the success of this project for the future of global energy ? (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत में संलयन ऊर्जा कार्यक्रम का पिछले कुछ दशकों में निरंतर क्रमिक-विकास हुआ है। अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संलयन ऊर्जा परियोजना – अंतर्राष्ट्रीय तापनाभिकीय प्रायोगिक रिएक्टर (आई टी ई आर) में भारत के योगदान का उल्लेख कीजिए। वैश्विक ऊर्जा के भविष्य के लिए इस परियोजना की सफलता के क्या निहितार्थ होंगे ? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS3 Technology: why it matters, use, benefit, risk, policy. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise details on India's 9% share/TF coil + clear link to climate goals.
- Identify India as one of the 7 member states
- Mention specific contribution (e.g., 9% cost share, TF coil manufacturing)
- State benefit: virtually limitless, clean energy source
- State benefit: reduction in carbon emissions/climate change
Q6 10M 150w Compulsory how Energy independence and biotechnology
How can India achieve energy independence through clean technology by 2047 ? How can biotechnology can play a crucial role in this endeavour ? (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत, वर्ष 2047 तक स्वच्छ प्रौद्योगिकी के माध्यम से ऊर्जा स्वतंत्रता कैसे प्राप्त कर सकता है ? जैव-प्रौद्योगिकी इस प्रयास में किस प्रकार महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभा सकती है ? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS3 Technology & Environment. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Links specific biotech (algae/ethanol) to 2047 grid/transport targets.
- Renewable energy mix (solar/wind) for grid stability
- Biofuels (ethanol) for transport sector substitution
- Algae-based bioenergy or waste-to-energy conversion
- Policy framework (e.g., National Biofuel Policy)
Q7 10M 150w Compulsory what Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage
What is Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) ? What is the potential role of CCUS in tackling climate change ? (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
कार्बन अवशोषण (कैप्चर), उपयोग तथा भंडारण (सी सी यू एस) से क्या आशय है ? जलवायु परिवर्तन से निपटने में सी सी यू एस की संभावित भूमिका क्या है ? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS3 Environment: threat, causes, impact, mitigation. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Clear definition, detailed process explanation, specific role in climate change, and implementable measures.
- Define Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)
- Explain the capture, utilization, and storage processes
- State the role of CCUS in tackling climate change
- Mention specific applications or sectors (e.g., power, cement)
Q8 10M 150w Compulsory what Seawater intrusion in coastal aquifers
Seawater intrusion in the coastal aquifers is a major concern in India. What are the causes of seawater intrusion and the remedial measures to combat this hazard ? (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत में तटीय जलभृत में समुद्री जल घुसपैठ एक मुख्य चिंता का विषय है। समुद्री जल घुसपैठ के क्या कारण हैं तथा ऐसी आपदा का सामना करने के उपचारात्मक उपाय क्या हैं ? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Environment: threat, causes, impact, mitigation. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise technical causes (over-pumping, sea-level rise) and specific, implementable remedial measures (barriers, MAR).
- Identify over-exploitation of groundwater as primary cause
- Mention sea-level rise or coastal erosion
- Suggest artificial recharge or rainwater harvesting
- Mention construction of barriers or desalination
Q9 10M 150w Compulsory elaborate Terrorism in India and counter measures
Terrorism is a global scourge. How has it manifested in India ? Elaborate with contemporary examples. What are the counter measures adopted by the State ? Explain. (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
आतंकवाद एक वैश्विक महाविपत्ति है। यह भारत में किस रूप में प्रकट हुआ है ? समसामयिक उदाहरणों से व्याख्या कीजिए। राज्य द्वारा कौन-से जवाबी उपाय अपनाए गए हैं ? समझाइए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Security: classify threat, vulnerability, response; stay calm. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise classification of threats with specific recent examples and detailed legal/institutional counter-measures.
- Classify threat types (cross-border, internal, Naxal)
- Cite specific contemporary examples (e.g., 2016 Pathankot, 2019 Pulwama)
- Name specific legal counter-measures (UAPA, MCA, NIA)
- Mention institutional response (NSG, NIA, CBI)
Q10 10M 150w Compulsory explain Left Wing Extremism and government measures
The Government of India recently stated that Left Wing Extremism (LWE) will be eliminated by 2026. What do you understand by LWE and how are the people affected by it ? What measures have been taken by the government to eliminate LWE ? (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत सरकार ने हाल ही में घोषणा की है कि वामपंथी उग्रवाद (एल डब्ल्यू ई) 2026 तक समाप्त कर दिया जाएगा। आप एल डब्ल्यू ई से क्या समझते हैं तथा जनता इससे किस प्रकार प्रभावित है ? एल डब्ल्यू ई को समाप्त करने के लिए सरकार ने क्या उपाय किए हैं ? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Security: classify threat, vulnerability, response; stay calm. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise definition, clear impact analysis, specific legal and developmental measures cited.
- Define LWE as Naxalism/Maoism
- Explain impact on people (displacement, violence)
- List legal measures (UAPA, AFSPA)
- List developmental measures (infrastructure, connectivity)
Q11 15M 250w Compulsory explain Fiscal Health Index for states
Explain how the Fiscal Health Index (FHI) can be used as a tool for assessing the fiscal performance of states in India. In what way would it encourage the states to adopt prudent and sustainable fiscal policies ? (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
समझाइए कि किस प्रकार राजकोषीय स्वास्थ्य सूचकांक (एफ एच आई) भारत में राज्यों के राजकोषीय प्रदर्शन के आकलन के उपकरण के रूप में प्रयोग किया जा सकता है। किस प्रकार यह राज्यों को विवेकपूर्ण तथा संपोषणीय राजकोषीय नीतियों को अपनाने के लिए प्रोत्साहित करेगा ? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Economy: carry live data, draw the simple diagram. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise definition, clear list of parameters, and a logical link to policy incentives.
- Define FHI as a composite index of fiscal health
- List key parameters (e.g., debt, revenue, expenditure)
- Explain the mechanism of ranking states
- Link FHI to adoption of sustainable policies
Q12 15M 250w Compulsory discuss Production Linked Incentive scheme
Discuss the rationale of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. What are its achievements ? In what way can the functioning and outcomes of the scheme be improved ? (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
उत्पादन संबद्ध प्रोत्साहन (पी एल आई) योजना के तर्कधार की विवेचना कीजिए। इसकी क्या उपलब्धियाँ हैं ? किस प्रकार इस योजना की कार्य-पद्धति तथा परिणामों में सुधार किया जा सकता है ? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures > Assessment. discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Precise rationale, data-backed achievements, and implementable improvements
- Rationale: Atmanirbhar Bharat, supply chain diversification, global value chains
- Achievements: Specific sectoral growth (e.g., electronics, pharma) or FDI inflow
- Improvements: Addressing implementation bottlenecks or sectoral expansion
- Balanced close: Critical assessment of scheme's long-term viability
Q13 15M 250w Compulsory examine Groundwater depletion factors and mitigation
Examine the factors responsible for depleting groundwater in India. What are the steps taken by the government to mitigate such depletion of groundwater ? (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत में घटते भूजल के लिए उत्तरदायी कारकों का परीक्षण कीजिए। भूजल में ऐसी क्षीणता को कम करने के लिए सरकार ने क्या कदम उठाए हैं ? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS3 Environment: Threat, Causes, Impact, Mitigation. examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion Full marks: Balanced analysis of agri/urban causes with specific legal (2019 Act) and developmental (ABJY) measures.
- Agricultural over-extraction (tubewells, water-intensive crops)
- Industrial and urban demand factors
- Legal/Institutional measures (Jal Shakti, CGWA, 2019 Act)
- Developmental measures (Jal Jeevan Mission, rainwater harvesting)
Q14 15M 250w Compulsory examine Food processing industries scope and employment
Examine the scope of the food processing industries in India. Elaborate the measures taken by the government in the food processing industries for generating employment opportunities. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत में खाद्य प्रसंस्करण उद्योगों के विस्तार का परीक्षण कीजिए। खाद्य प्रसंस्करण उद्योगों में रोजगार अवसरों को सृजित करने हेतु, सरकार द्वारा किए गए उपायों का विस्तार से उल्लेख कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures: legal, institutional, developmental > Assessment. examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion Full marks: Detailed scope with data; specific schemes (PMFME) linked to employment.
- Scope: value addition to raw agri produce
- Scope: export potential and import substitution
- Measures: specific schemes (e.g., PMFME, MTPS)
- Measures: institutional support (NHB, FSSAI)
Q15 15M 250w Compulsory explain Nanotechnology in agriculture
How does nanotechnology offer significant advancements in the field of agriculture ? How can this technology help to uplift the socio-economic status of farmers ? (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
नैनो-प्रौद्योगिकी कृषि के क्षेत्र में महत्वपूर्ण उन्नति कैसे प्रदान करती है ? यह प्रौद्योगिकी कैसे किसानों की सामाजिक-आर्थिक स्थिति के उत्थान में सहायक हो सकती है ? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures > Assessment. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Specific nanotech applications linked to clear socio-economic benefits with implementable measures.
- Define nanotechnology in agricultural context
- Explain nano-fertilizers/pesticides for efficiency
- Link tech to income/food security
- Mention specific application (e.g., nano-coating)
Q16 15M 250w Compulsory mention Semiconductor manufacturing and India Semiconductor Mission
India aims to become a semiconductor manufacturing hub. What are the challenges faced by the semiconductor industry in India ? Mention the salient features of the India Semiconductor Mission. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत ने एक सेमीकंडक्टर विनिर्माण केन्द्र बनने का लक्ष्य रखा है। भारत में सेमीकंडक्टर उद्योग के सामने क्या चुनौतियाँ हैं ? भारत सेमीकंडक्टर मिशन की प्रमुख विशेषताओं का उल्लेख कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures > Assessment. challenges: 3-4 challenges > solutions mapped to them > conclusion | highlight: name the salient points > one line of substance each > close Full marks: Precise technical challenges mapped to ISM features with specific data.
- High capital intensity of fabrication plants
- Lack of specialized skilled workforce
- Dependence on imported raw materials/equipment
- Complex regulatory and land acquisition hurdles
- Financial support for manufacturing units
- Incentives for R&D and design centers
- Establishment of India Semiconductor Council
- Support for ancillary and packaging industries
Q17 15M 250w Compulsory explain Mining environmental hazards and remedial measures
Mineral resources are fundamental to the country's economy and these are exploited by mining. Why is mining considered an environmental hazard ? Explain the remedial measures required to reduce the environmental hazard due to mining. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
खनिज संसाधन देश की अर्थव्यवस्था के लिए आधारभूत हैं तथा इनका खनन द्वारा शोषण होता है। खनन को पर्यावरणीय आपदा क्यों समझा जाता है ? खनन द्वारा पैदा होने वाली पर्यावरणीय आपदा को कम करने हेतु आवश्यक उपचारात्मक उपायों की व्याख्या कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures: legal, institutional, developmental > Assessment. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Comprehensive analysis of hazards with specific, implementable remedial measures and legal references.
- Identify specific hazards: land degradation, water pollution, air quality
- Explain the mechanism of environmental damage (e.g., tailings, dust)
- List remedial measures: legal (Mines Act), institutional, developmental
- Mention specific mitigation: afforestation, water treatment, waste management
Q18 15M 250w Compulsory review India's climate commitments and NDC updates
Write a review on India's climate commitments under the Paris Agreement (2015) and mention how these have been further strengthened in COP26 (2021). In this direction, how has the first Nationally Determined Contribution intended by India been updated in 2022 ? (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
पेरिस समझौता (2015) के अंतर्गत, भारत की जलवायु वचनबद्धताओं पर समीक्षा लिखिए तथा बताइए कि उन्हें किस प्रकार कोप26 (2021) में और अधिक दृढ़ता प्रदान की गई है। इस दिशा में, किस प्रकार पहली बार भारत द्वारा प्रस्तावित राष्ट्रीय स्तर पर निर्धारित योगदान को 2022 में अद्यतन किया गया है ? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures: legal, institutional, developmental > Assessment. discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Precise comparison of 2015 vs 2021 vs 2022 targets with specific percentages.
- Paris 2015: 40% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030
- Paris 2015: 40% non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030
- COP26 2021: Net Zero by 2070
- 2022 NDC: 45% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030
- 2022 NDC: 50% non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030
Q19 15M 250w Compulsory analyse North-East internal security and peace accords
What are the major challenges to internal security and peace process in the North-Eastern States ? Map the various peace accords and agreements initiated by the government in the past decade. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
उत्तर-पूर्वी राज्यों में आन्तरिक सुरक्षा एवं शांति प्रक्रिया में कौन-सी प्रमुख चुनौतियाँ हैं ? विगत एक दशक में सरकार द्वारा किए गए विभिन्न सहमति-पत्रों तथा शांति समझौतों के रूप में ली गई पहलों का खाका खींचिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Security: classify threat, vulnerability, response; stay calm. challenges: 3-4 challenges > solutions mapped to them > conclusion Full marks: Identifies specific challenges, maps recent accords accurately, and links them to security/development.
- Identify 3-4 specific internal security challenges in NE states
- Map peace accords/agreements initiated in the past decade
- Link specific challenges to the peace process
- Provide a balanced conclusion on the current status
Q20 15M 250w Compulsory discuss Maritime security and coastal challenges
Why is maritime security vital to protect India's sea trade ? Discuss maritime and coastal security challenges and the way forward. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत के समुद्री व्यापार के संरक्षण के लिए समुद्री सुरक्षा क्यों अत्यावश्यक है ? समुद्री तथा तटीय सुरक्षा की चुनौतियों तथा आगे बढ़ने के मार्ग पर चर्चा कीजिए । (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Security: classify threat, vulnerability, response; stay calm. discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Precise economic linkage, specific threat classification, and implementable institutional measures.
- Link security to 90% trade volume and energy imports
- Classify threats: piracy, terrorism, illegal fishing, smuggling
- Identify vulnerabilities: EEZ gaps, coastal state coordination
- Propose measures: SAGAR, INS, port security, international cooperation